By Adesina Wahab

The National Vice President, External Affairs of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, Comrade Kenechukwu Aneke, has declared intention to vie for the post of the Senate President of the association during its forthcoming national convention.

Aneke, popularly called Okwuluoha, hinged his ambition on his commitment to the welfare and progress of Nigerian students.

Addressing students and other stakeholders from different parts of the country, the Postgraduate Student of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), noted that he has the pedigree to occupy the exalted office.

“This declaration is borne out of my deep commitment to the welfare and progress of Nigerian students, my unwavering belief in purposeful and result-oriented leadership, and the strong conviction that the Senate of NANS must be led by a comrade who has demonstrated capacity, integrity, and tangible deliverables at the national level.

“As National Vice President External Affairs, I have worked tirelessly to reposition NANS on the continental stage while delivering impactful programmes at home. Some of my notable achievements include: International Engagements and Representation: “Participated in the International Youth Day Celebration in Angola, where I interfaced with Nigerian youths and other African students and youths, fostering stronger bonds of solidarity and collaboration across the continent.

“Accompanied the All-African Students Union (AASU) President to Ghana for the submission of his nomination form at the AASU Headquarters in Ghana, strengthening bilateral relations between Nigerian and Ghanaian student bodies.

“Attended AASU Inauguration and Honours Ceremony, held at the Press Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Accra, Ghana.

Undertook official visits and transits through the Benin Republic and Togo, expanding NANS diplomatic footprint within the African continent.

He also listed the electoral victories recorded during his tenure to include the election of H.E. Osisogu Osikenyi as President of the All-African Students Union (AASU), the election of H.E. Francis Azubuike as President of the Commonwealth Students Association(CSA), and the election of Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi as African Region Representative of the Commonwealth Students Association(CSA)
“These victories have not only elevated the profile of Nigerian students internationally but have also opened new doors for collaboration, scholarships, and opportunities for our members.”

On some of the key programmes he executed as NANS Vice President External Affairs, Aneke mentioned Home Coming Programme – Hosted in ESUT, Enugu State. Over 200 students benefited from Free CNG Bus Cards loaded with ₦1,000 free transportation credit each, alongside other valuable giveaways aimed at easing the burden of mobility and supporting student welfare.

NANS Novelty Match 2026 – Successfully organized at the UNEC Stadium, Enugu, as a unifying sporting event that promoted camaraderie, talent discovery, and healthy competition among Nigerian students.
“These achievements reflect my dedication to both international diplomacy and domestic student welfare. They demonstrate that I do not only talk the talk but walk the walk.

“My Agenda as Senate President of NANS: If elected as Senate President, I will prioritize the following key areas: Strengthening Legislative Oversight and Accountability; ensure the Senate becomes a vibrant, proactive, and independent arm that holds the National Executive Council accountable while passing people-oriented resolutions that directly impact students.

Student Welfare and Economic Empowerment: Champion policies and programmes that address the high cost of education, transportation, accommodation, and access to quality healthcare for Nigerian students.
Continental and Global Representation: Build on the foundation we have laid by deepening NANS’ partnerships with student bodies across Africa and the Commonwealth, attracting more opportunities, scholarships, and exchange programs for Nigerian students.

Unity and Inclusivity: Foster greater unity among all zones, blocs, and stakeholders in NANS, ensuring every region and institution feels adequately represented in the Senate.

Anti-Corruption and Transparency: Promote a culture of transparency, fiscal discipline, and zero tolerance for corruption within the Association.

“I stand on the solid record of service, sacrifice, and results. I am not a newcomer to NANS leadership; I have been tested and trusted at the national level.

“I therefore humbly call on all Nigerian students, Comrades, senior Cadres, Critical Stakeholders, Senators, Zonal Coordinators, JCC Chairmen, SUG Presidents, and well-meaning members of the Association to support my aspiration to become the next Senate President of NANS.

“Together, we can build a stronger, more united, more purposeful, and more result-driven National Association of Nigerian Students.”